Beylerbeyi Palace Museum Tickets & Guide: Our Tips for Your Visit

Beylerbeyi Palace is one of the most stunning waterfront palaces in Istanbul, offering a glimpse into the luxury and elegance of the late Ottoman Empire.

In this guide, we’ll share our firsthand experience, along with practical tips on tickets, entry fees, must-see sections, and how to avoid long queues. If you’re planning a visit to Beylerbeyi Palace Museum, this is everything you need to know!

Fascinating Facts About Beylerbeyi Palace Museum

✔ Built as an imperial summer palace – Constructed in 1865 by Sultan Abdülaziz, Beylerbeyi Palace was used as a summer residence and guesthouse for foreign dignitaries.

✔ Hosted European royalty – Among its famous guests were French Emperor Napoleon III’s wife, Empress Eugénie, and the Austro-Hungarian Emperor Franz Joseph.

✔ Features stunning Baroque and Ottoman architecture – The palace combines European neoclassical elements with traditional Ottoman interior design.

✔ Surrounded by lush gardens – The palace boasts beautiful terraced gardens, pavilions, and fountains, offering stunning views of the Bosphorus.

✔ Home to a unique underground tunnel – A secret tunnel beneath the palace was used by sultans to reach the seaside without being seen.

✔ The last home of Sultan Abdülhamid II – The exiled Ottoman sultan lived his final years in Beylerbeyi Palace after being dethroned in 1909.

💡 Tip: Visit the palace in the late afternoon to enjoy golden-hour Bosphorus views from the gardens!

Our Recommendation: We Booked These Tickets

Since the palace is a popular historical site, booking tickets in advance is the best way to avoid long queues and enjoy a seamless visit.

We opted for the Beylerbeyi Palace Skip-the-Line Ticket with Audio Guide, which allowed us to enter without waiting in line and explore at our own pace with an informative audio guide.

The museum is also included in the Istanbul E-Pass and Istanbul Tourist Pass, making it a great option for travelers looking to visit multiple attractions with one pass.

If you’re planning to visit Beylerbeyi Palace, here’s a breakdown of the best ticket options to help you choose the right one.

Tickets and Prices for Beylerbeyi Palace

Each ticket option provides a different experience. Here’s what you get with each one:

1. Standard Entry Ticket (€25)

✔ Entry to Beylerbeyi Palace, including the main halls, private rooms, and gardens.
❌ No skip-the-line access—you may have to wait in line, especially during peak hours.
❌ No guided tour or audio guide included.

💡 Best for: Visitors who want to explore the palace at their own pace without extra features.

2. Beylerbeyi Palace Skip-the-Line Ticket with Audio Guide (€25) – Our Pick!

✔ Fast-track entry with no waiting in long ticket lines.
✔ Includes an audio guide for a self-guided experience, allowing you to learn about the palace’s history, architecture, and royal residents.
✔ Access to all interior rooms, including the Harem, and the Bosphorus-side gardens.

💡 Best for: Travelers who want a smooth, hassle-free visit with informative narration.

Where Should You Buy Beylerbeyi Palace Tickets?

You can book your ticket:
✔ On site at the ticket counter (expect wait times).
✔ Via trusted online platforms like GetYourGuide for instant confirmation and flexible cancellations.
✔ As part of Istanbul E-Pass or Istanbul Tourist Pass for a multi-attraction experience.

Is the Beylerbeyi Palace Skip-the-Line Ticket Worth It?

Yes! Beylerbeyi Palace is a popular attraction, and waiting in line can take 30-45 minutes during peak hours.

✔ If you want to save time, the skip-the-line ticket with an audio guide is the best option.
✔ If you love history and want in-depth details, the audio guide adds a richer experience.

Is Beylerbeyi Palace Included in Istanbul City Passes?

Yes! Beylerbeyi Palace is included in most Istanbul tourist passes, allowing you to explore more sites for less money.

✔ Istanbul E-Pass – Includes Beylerbeyi Palace, along with Topkapi Palace, Dolmabahçe Palace, and Basilica Cistern.
✔ Istanbul Tourist Pass – Covers Beylerbeyi Palace, as well as Bosphorus cruises, guided tours, and more.

💡 Our Recommendation: If you plan to visit multiple attractions, Istanbul E-Pass or Istanbul Tourist Pass can help you save time and money.

Which Beylerbeyi Palace Ticket Should You Get?

✔ Want basic entry? → Get the Standard Ticket (€25).
✔ Prefer a self-guided experience with an audio guide? → Choose the Skip-the-Line Ticket (€25).
✔ Looking for the best deal on multiple attractions? → Istanbul E-Pass or Istanbul Tourist Pass covers multiple sites!

Our Beylerbeyi Palace Experience

Visiting Beylerbeyi Palace Museum was like stepping into a forgotten era of Ottoman luxury, away from the crowds of Topkapi and Dolmabahce Palaces.

Nestled along the Asian shore of the Bosphorus, this stunning summer residence of Sultan Abdülaziz, built in the 1860s, showcases a fusion of Ottoman, Baroque, and Rococo architectural styles.

Unlike other imperial palaces in Istanbul, Beylerbeyi offers a more peaceful experience, allowing visitors to explore lavish interiors, breathtaking gardens, and panoramic Bosphorus views at a relaxed pace.

Getting Into the Palace

✔ Security checks are required before entry, similar to other major palaces.
✔ Skip-the-line tickets are available online, but standard ticket holders may wait in line.
✔ Photography is not allowed inside, but you can capture stunning exterior shots of the palace and gardens.

💡 Tip: Arrive early in the morning or late in the afternoon to avoid peak tourist hours.

Exploring the Interior of Beylerbeyi Palace

Stepping inside Beylerbeyi Palace Istanbul, we were immediately struck by its opulent decor and European influences. The interior is grand yet intimate, designed for royal retreats rather than formal state affairs.

🏛️ The Grand Hall

✔ The centerpiece of the palace, featuring an enormous crystal chandelier and a gold-plated fireplace.
✔ High ceilings with intricate carvings and gilded details showcase the craftsmanship of the Ottoman era.
✔ Used for official receptions and welcoming foreign dignitaries, including Empress Eugénie of France.

💡 Tip: Stand in the middle of the hall and look up—the chandelier reflects beautifully in the mirrors, creating a mesmerizing effect.

💎 The Harem Section

The Harem was the private quarters of the Sultan and his family, offering a glimpse into their daily lives. Though smaller than the Harem at Topkapi Palace, it’s beautifully decorated and filled with history.

✔ Includes intimate family rooms, each with handcrafted ceilings and delicate furnishings.
✔ Features traditional Ottoman baths, decorated with marble and Iznik tiles.
✔ Less crowded than Topkapi’s Harem, allowing for a quieter and more immersive experience.

🌿 The Stunning Gardens

One of the most impressive features of Beylerbeyi Palace is its expansive gardens, covering 200,000 square meters. Walking through them felt like a peaceful escape from the city’s busy streets.

✔ The gardens are filled with cypress, magnolia, and palm trees, creating a lush, serene environment.
✔ Terraces and fountains add to the elegance, making it a perfect place to relax and take photos.
✔ The Bosphorus breeze enhances the overall experience, making it a great spot to unwind after touring the interior.

💡 Tip: Walk toward the waterfront terrace for the best Bosphorus views and a perfect photo opportunity.

Beylerbeyi Palace with Kids – What to Know

✔ Children under 6 enter for free, making it a family-friendly destination.
✔ Strollers are allowed in the gardens, but not inside the palace.
✔ Guided tours help keep kids engaged with the stories of Ottoman sultans and visiting European royals.

💡 Family Tip: Kids will love running through the gardens and exploring the outdoor areas, so plan for extra time outside!

Is Beylerbeyi Palace Worth Visiting?

Absolutely! Beylerbeyi Palace Museum is a hidden treasure that provides a unique and more relaxed alternative to Dolmabahçe and Topkapi Palaces.

✔ If you love history, stunning architecture, and breathtaking Bosphorus views, this imperial summer palace is a must-visit.
✔ If you want to escape the crowds, Beylerbeyi provides a peaceful yet equally opulent experience.
✔ If you’re exploring the Asian side, it’s a great stop alongside Üsküdar, Kuzguncuk, and Çengelköy.

💡 Best Case? Visit in the afternoon, stroll through the gardens, and catch a sunset over the Bosphorus for an unforgettable experience!

Visitor Information & Tips

📍 Location

The Beylerbeyi Palace Museum is located on the Asian side of Istanbul, in the Üsküdar district, right along the Bosphorus shoreline. 📍 View on Google Maps

⏰ Opening Hours

✔ Open Tuesday to Sunday: 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM
✔ Closed on Mondays
✔ Last entry at 4:30 PM

💡 Tip: Visit early in the morning or late in the afternoon for fewer crowds and better lighting for photos.

🎟️ Tickets

✔ General Admission: 300 TL
✔ Discounted Entry: Available for students and seniors—check the museum website for the latest prices.
✔ Free Entry: Visitors aged 65 and above, children under 8, and ICOM cardholders.

We’ve covered all ticket details earlier in this article—scroll up for more info!

Please cross check hours and admissions from millisaraylar.gov.tr

💡 Visiting Tips

✔ Take your time exploring the interiors—the lavish chandeliers, gold accents, and intricate frescoes make it one of the most beautiful Ottoman palaces.
✔ Visit the Harem Section—this is where the Sultan and his family lived, and it’s beautifully preserved.
✔ Walk through the stunning gardens—they cover 200,000 square meters and feature palm trees, fountains, and breathtaking Bosphorus views.
✔ Photography is not allowed inside, so focus on capturing the palace’s stunning exterior and gardens.
✔ Wear comfortable shoes, as some outdoor areas have cobblestone pathways.

♿ Accessibility

✔ The palace is partially wheelchair accessible, but some upper sections require stair access.
✔ Wide outdoor pathways make exploring the gardens easier for visitors with mobility challenges.

💡 Tip: If you’re looking for a more accessible Ottoman palace experience, Dolmabahce Palace offers better mobility-friendly options.

🅿️ Parking Opportunities

✔ No dedicated parking lot, but visitors can park along the Bosphorus near Beylerbeyi Pier.
✔ ISPARK locations are available nearby for paid parking.

🏛️ Nearby Attractions

Beylerbeyi Palace is located in Üsküdar, a district rich in Ottoman history and waterfront views. Some great nearby attractions include:

✔ Çamlıca Hill – One of Istanbul’s highest points, offering panoramic views of the city and Bosphorus.
✔ Kuzguncuk Neighborhood – A charming area filled with historic wooden houses, cozy cafés, and an artistic vibe.
✔ Mihrimah Sultan Mosque – A masterpiece by Ottoman architect Mimar Sinan, located near Üsküdar Pier.
✔ Üsküdar Market & Fish Bazaar – A vibrant area where you can explore local food, Turkish sweets, and street vendors.
✔ Çengelköy – A picturesque Bosphorus-side district known for authentic Turkish breakfast spots and tea gardens.

💡 Tip: After visiting Beylerbeyi Palace, take a short drive or ferry ride to Çamlıca Hill for a breathtaking sunset! 🚀🏛️🌊

How to Get to Beylerbeyi Palace – Travel Tips

Here’s how to reach it from different parts of the city:

🚍 By Bus

✔ Nearest Bus Stop: Beylerbeyi
✔ Buses stopping here:

• 15, 15F, 15H, 15KÇ, 15P (From Üsküdar and surrounding areas)

💡 Tip: If you’re coming from Üsküdar, the bus is the most convenient way to reach the palace.

⛴️ By Ferry

✔ Nearest Pier: Beylerbeyi Pier
✔ Take a ferry to Üsküdar, then transfer to a bus or taxi to reach the palace.

💡 Tip: Taking the ferry from Eminönü or Beşiktaş to Üsküdar offers a scenic Bosphorus ride before reaching the museum.

Have You Visited Beylerbeyi Palace Museum?

These were our best tips and insights for visiting Beylerbeyi Palace Museum.

Do you have questions about tickets, transportation, or the best sections to see? Or have you already explored this Ottoman treasure and want to share your experience?

📩 Drop a comment below—we’d love to hear from you! 🚀🏛️🌿